Goal: Require Oregon’s two largest utility companies to end the use of coal by 2030.

Oregon is trying to pass what many call “the most ambitious environmental bill in decades.” The bill would call for the phasing out of the use of coal by the state’s two biggest utility companies by 2030 and require the state to produce at least 50 percent of its electricity from sustainable energy alternatives. The bill is called the Clean Electricity and Coal Transition Plan and has already made it through the Oregon House. It is now on its way to earning Senate approval.

The bill manifested as a compromise between environmentalists and energy companies. Environmentalists had originally planned for a stricter proposal that would be voted on by Oregonians. However, knowing that seven in 10 Oregonians are likely to support the bill, the utility companies opted instead to find a middle ground without unnecessary protest.

So far the bill has attracted strong Democratic support and approval from a few Republicans. Nevertheless, Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli promises to do everything in his power to ensure the bill does not pass into law or to stall the process. This would interfere with Oregon’s plans to reduce emissions by an impressive 75 percent by 2050.

Throw your support behind Oregon’s passing of the bill by adding your name to the petition. Showing support at nationwide and grassroots level makes it more difficult for Ferrioli to follow through with his promises of hindering the bill’s passing into law.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Senate President Courtney,

I write this letter to express my enthusiasm for the passing of the bill called “The Clean Electricity and Coal Transition Plan.” Many consider this bill to be one of the most ambitious passed in decades, and rightly so. Not only does this help Oregon to meet its 2050 goals of reducing emissions by 75 percent, it also forces Oregon’s two largest utility companies to become more innovative in how they do business and provide energy.

Long respected for its commitment to the environment, Oregon once again sets an example for other states to follow. Pollution caused by the drilling, manufacturing, and use of oil and other non-renewable sources of energy creates a problem for the environment and all livings things that must reside in it. As a result, something must be done and now. This bill represents a move in the right direction.

Unfortunately, Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli has promised to do everything in his power to ensure the bill gets nowhere. I urge you to help ensure the bill makes it through the Senate and on to the governor so that it can become enforced as law. This stands to benefit not just the current generation of Oregonians, but many Americans for generations to come.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: The Oregon Department of Transportation

Sign the Petition

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

Address

Street AddressCityState / Province / RegionZIP / Postal CodeCountry

Share on Facebook

Only your name will be displayed. By signing, you accept our terms and may receive updates on this and related causes.